Fernando Puebla

Peruvian conservationist who pioneered Amazon rainforest protection

Fernando Puebla (1912-1969) was an Amazonian biologist and environmental activist whose 1953 expedition led to the creation of Peru's first national park. His 1955 report exposed rubber extraction's devastation, prompting the government to establish Manú National Park in 1973. As director of the Instituto Geográfico de Perú, he mapped undiscovered indigenous territories while advocating for sustainable development. His 1960 book River of Life became a conservation manifesto, influencing later rainforest preservation efforts. Puebla's work is highlighted in the Amazon Conservation Consortium's archives.